5 Common Questions about Ice Cream and Frozen Custard

The most frequently asked question about the ice cream from your local shop or the frozen custard treats on the Freddy’s menu is most likely to be “how soon can we get it?”. However, other questions like “Does ice cream expire? How long can I store frozen custard?” may be on your mind too if you're considering or have already purchased a pint or quart for your enjoyment at home. Below, find the answers to 5 frequently asked questions about ice cream and frozen custard.

Does Ice Cream Expire and More Common Questions about Ice Cream and Frozen Custard

In comparing ice cream vs. frozen custard, some of the answers to questions about these preparations may be similar, such as its nutritional content and storage recommendations. You may also be curious about the potential expiration of these products, even if it’s likely that they will have been consumed before any specified end date. Despite how quickly both frozen custard and ice cream tend to be consumed, it’s still helpful to know when you may want to or have to get rid of them. Below, learn more about these topics and others pertaining to these frozen treats.

1. What’s the difference between ice cream and frozen custard?

Ice cream and frozen custard can be used and enjoyed in similar ways and share many of the same ingredients. So, what’s the difference between frozen custard and ice cream? One main difference is that frozen custard contains more egg yolks in it than ice cream. Consequently, frozen custard tends to be richer and creamier.

2. Does ice cream have protein?

According to the nutritional evaluation of ice cream provided by Healthline, a half cup serving of common varieties of vanilla ice cream typically has approximately 2-3 grams of protein. On the other hand, a pint (2 cups) of Freddy’s vanilla frozen custard has 26 grams of protein. In addition to serving size, the chosen ingredients, the brand and the type of ice cream or frozen custard may further impact the amount of protein and other nutritional details. For example, some ice cream recipes like this one from Wholesome Yum increase the protein content by incorporating protein powder. At Freddy’s, guests can check the nutrition and allergen information to learn the specifics of their pints of frozen custard or other sweet selections, as well as savory entrees, sides, condiments and toppings, and drinks.

3. Does ice cream expire? How long does frozen custard last?

Containers of ice cream and frozen custard that you purchase likely have a designated “best by” date. Homemade preparations typically have a recommended timeline for consumption provided as part of the recipe – one that is often much shorter than for commercial products. As discussed in detail at Southern Living, losing power or storage issues resulting in problems like freezer burn may further impact the quality or safety of these frozen treats. Consequently, even if a product’s recommended period for best enjoyment hasn’t technically expired, you may want to or need to toss it.

4. What’s the best way to store both frozen custard and ice cream?

While not letting ice cream melt and re-freeze or making sure that the freezer is set at the appropriate temperature may be understood as far as storing frozen custard or ice cream, other choices can help ensure that these cool and creamy treats stay in their best possible condition. The International Dairy Foods Association offers several tips for storing ice cream, as well as choosing ice cream from the store and transporting it. For example, make sure that the ice cream isn’t stored in the freezer door as the temperatures are more variable in this location. While you may already be ensuring any container is closed before returning it to the freezer, other suggestions for limiting ice crystal development include putting plastic wrap or waxed paper directly on top of the ice cream before putting it away. Placing the entire container into a freezer storage bag is also suggested for long term storage.

5. Can you make frozen custard or ice cream at home?

Yes! There are many delicious frozen custard recipes as well as DIY ice cream recipes to try at home. Even if you don’t have an ice cream maker, many recipes include other methods for preparation.

Does ice cream expire? Can you make your own frozen custard or ice cream at home? While you now have the answers to these questions and more, ordering frozen custard treats at Freddy’s is an easy way to enjoy scrumptious sundaes or concretes with only one question in mind: which one should I try today? Stop by the Freddy’s near you or simply order your next treat on the app and watch your Freddy’s Rewards add up!